A special discussion on the ‘Strategic Environmental Assessment’ being carried out by the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority, in support of renewable energy development in the Northern Province of Sri Lanka, was held this Friday evening (24 April 2026) at the Governor’s Secretariat under the chairmanship of Hon. Governor N. Vethanayahan.
Representatives from Japan’s Oriental Consultants Global and Sri Lanka’s Consulting Engineers and Architects Associated, the firms conducting this study and planning process with technical and financial assistance from the Asian Development Bank presented detailed explanations to the Governor.
The Hon. Governor recalled that when producing renewable energy, particularly in the implementation of wind power projects, it is essential that the public be clearly informed through scientific studies. He recollected the public opposition that arose when wind turbines were being installed in the Maravanpulavu area of the Thenmaradchi region during his tenure as Jaffna District Secretary.The Governor emphasized that when the public raises concerns in the absence of clear scientific study findings, professors and subject matter experts must be engaged to provide explanations in a manner the public can understand. He also stressed that officials must ensure that no form of development causes harm to the local population.
The Northern Province holds vast potential for electricity generation through solar, wind, and ocean wave energy. These study activities are critically important for achieving the national target of obtaining 70% of total electricity production from renewable energy sources by the year 2030. Feasibility studies are currently being conducted in four districts Jaffna, Kilinochchi, Mannar, and Mullaitivu excluding Vavuniya.
The Hon. Governor further emphasized that renewable energy projects are essential as they are ‘environmentally friendly.’
Participating in this discussion were Assistant Directors of the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority, Engineer Chathura Wanniyarachchi and Palitha Abeyaratne, the Secretary to the Governor Sivabathasundaram Sathiyaseelan, and representatives from international and local advisory committees.
